ABSTRACT
Keratocystic odontogenic tumor [KCOT] is a locally aggressive lesion with a known potential for repeated recurrences. The distinct clinical features and explicit cystic histologic characteristics concurrent with the neoplastic nature of this lesion have led to several studies and comparisons with other odontogenic cysts and tumors. Fascin is an actin-bundling protein which has not been evaluated in odontogenic lesions. The aim of this study was to assess the expression of fascin in KCOT and dentigerous cyst [DC]. In this cross-sectional investigation, the paraffin blocks of 18 KCOTs and 9 DCs were selected and subjected to immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibody against fascin. Staining was scored by estimating the percentage of immunoreactive epithelial cells. Mann-Whitney-U test was applied for statistical analysis [P<0.05]. Fascin expression was observed throughout the entire epithelial lining of the DCs, while in 50% of the KCOTs, immunostaining was negative in the basal layer and parakeratinized cells adjacent to the lumen. A statistically significant difference in the expression pattern of fascin was found between the studied KCOTs and DCs [P=0.01]. Considering the variation in fascin expression patterns between the sample of KCOTs and DCs in the present investigation, it can be suggested that this protein might have a role in the biologic behavior and pathogenesis of KCOT and DC